Georgia officials awaiting CDC confirmation of third COVID-19 case

The Georgia Department of Public Health is awaiting confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on a positive test on a third COVID-19 patient in the state, this time located in Floyd County.

The initial testing was completed by the Georgia Public Health Laboratory on March 5.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocol requires test results be sent to that federal agency for confirmation.

Testing at most state laboratories, including Georgia, is just underway, and due to previous flaws in the test components sent to state laboratories, the CDC requires all presumptive positive results for COVID-19 be sent to them for verification.

Authorities say CDC results on this potential third Georgia patient is expected in the coming days.

“The CDC has not confirmed initial test results for this patient. DPH officials have requested expedited processing for an official determination,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “To prevent the spread of incomplete or inaccurate information, we encourage Georgians to rely on guidance from the CDC, the DPH and my office. We will continue to provide regular updates to keep the public informed and ensure the health and safety of families across our state.”

The DPH is working to identify any contacts who may have been exposed while the individuals were infections. People who are identified as having been exposed will be contacted directly by a DPH epidemiologist and monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms.

The risk of COVID-19 to the general public remains low.

All Georgians are asked to follow basic prevention measures.

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces.

If you have recently traveled to areas where there are ongoing outbreaks of COVID-19 and you develop fever with cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or if you have had contact with someone who is suspected to have COVID-19, stay home and call your health care provider or local health department right away.

Call first before going to any doctor’s office, emergency room or urgent care center and tell them about your recent travels and symptoms.

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